Down the centuries, the necklace has been a prized object of adornment, symbolising wealth, power and beauty for many cultures around the world. From the ancient Egyptians’ ornate jewels, boasting colourful stones, shells and carvings, to the modern-day statement pieces that make a fashion statement, the history of the necklace is as varied and vibrant as the people who wear it. This article delves into the fascinating history of necklaces, from its earliest application in ancient times, to its emergence as an integral part of modern fashion.
1. Jewels Around The Neck – A Timeline Through the Ages
From ancient times, the human has been wearing jewels around their neck. These jewels have brought beauty, status and power to the wearer throughout the centuries. Here’s a timeline through the ages of jewels around the neck.
From Ancient Times to The Middle Ages
- Ancient Egyptians adorned themselves with amulets featuring symbols of life, gods and animals, which were linked to life after death.
- In Ancient Greece, women wore jewelry made with precious metals such as silver and gold.
- In the Middle Ages, men wore lockets bearing a portrait of their family or lover.
Renaissance and Beyond
- By the late renaissance period, pendants in the shape of cross or crucifix were popular amongst the followers of Christianity.
- In the Elizabethan era, pendants with romantic inscriptions and images made a fashion statement.
- In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Cameo shaped pendants were popular, as they symbolized love and affection.
- Towards the end of the 20th century, jewelry was frequently worn to denote a person’s religious background.
21st Century
- In the 21st century, pendants have been used to denote a person’s identity, profession, hobbies or beliefs. Popular pendants include crosses, ankh symbols, animals, sports and television characters.
- Modern technologies have changed the way jewelry is made, enabling designers to create more intricate and detailed pieces.
From ancient Egyptian amulets to 21st century symbols, the jewels worn around the neck throughout history have carried a powerful significance. Jewelry has served as a form of self-expression and has marked significant moments in people’s own lives.
2. Necklaces of Antiquity – From Ancient Worship to Precious Fashion
- Regalia of Ancient Rulers
Throughout antiquity, necklaces symbolized the political power of rulers. These regalia became an essential part of royal attires and distinct markers of one’s prominent social status. Beads hand-crafted from precious stones, metals, and exquisitely designed jewellery constituted the jewellery of kings and queens in different parts of the world. The earliest surviving pieces were uncovered in tombs of the Pharaohs of Egypt.
- Cults of Ancient Gods
In many parts of the world, necklaces were a part of the ritualistic worship of gods. Ancient Greeks dedicas symbols pinned to chains along with gemstones and precious metal ornaments to their gods. Symbolic figures and unique pendants paired them with ornate neck chains, a tradition which has continued to exist until present day.
- Era of Human Adornment
In the Middle Ages, necklaces were more of a fashion accessory than a sign of social rank. People of all classes, including peasants, began wearing necklaces as a way to express themselves. Gold, pearls, and precious gems adorn different necklaces to symbolize the wearer. With the renaissance came change and new designs for necklaces such as decorative pendants, tassels, twisted metals, and more.
- Modern Day Statement Piece
Today, the necklace is a bold statement piece in fashion and has come a long way from the religious, political and cultural symbolism of antiquity. People often pair necklaces with other fashion accessories, like earrings and rings, to create a statement look. Necklaces of gold, charms, and precious gems continue to be a popular choice for all occasions – from everyday wear to more formal events.
3. An Artistic Renaissance – How Necklaces Evolved in the 16th and 17th Centuries
Renaissance Necklaces
The dawn of the 16th century heralded a new era of burgeoning creativity in the world of fashion. Necklaces, in particular, experienced a remarkable renaissance as the centuries passed, with both men and women wearing them in ever-more stylish and vibrant designs. Drawing on influences from Greco-Roman symbolism and featuring the newly-embraced motifs of the time, the necklaces of the 16th and 17th centuries evolved into a distinct art form all their own.
The Rise of Gemstones and Gold
The 16th and 17th centuries saw significant advances in jewelry craftsmanship, making it possible to create intricate designs which had never before been seen. In addition to the kinds of plaques, pendants, and chains that had been popular prior to the Renaissance, craftsmen and women also now incorporated precious metals and gemstones into their necklaces. Gold was a favorite choice of material for its symbolic value: it was thought to represent good health, wealth, and honor, and thus could be used to indicate the beauty and status of its wearer.
Renaissance Motifs
The motifs that began to appear in necklaces during this period represented the greater artistic movement that was being embraced in the Renaissance. In addition to nature-inspired symbols such as flowers, birds, and stars, necklaces of the 16th and 17th centuries also featured:
- Symbols of the Church, depicting angels, crosses, and saints.
- Lettering and phraseology in both Latin and Greek.
- Geometric shapes and patterns.
- Geometrical designs, such as hearts and circles.
- Astrological symbols.
The popular motifs of the time were often inspired by ancient Greek and Roman myths, with intricate designs that embodied specific symbolism related to the wearer’s life, situations, and ambitions. To this day, some of these motifs still remain popular, and are considered hallmarks of the Renaissance.
During the 17th century, necklace designs around the world were becoming more varied and inventive, with each region adopting their own styles and designs. From the opulent designs of Europe, to the colorful beaded necklaces of Africa, to the exquisite jade pieces of the Far East, necklaces during this era became increasingly sophisticated, intricate, and beautiful.
4. Wearable Extravagance – Modern Necklace Trends and Their Impact
This season, it’s all about statement jewellery, and necklaces are making a bigger statement than ever. With intricate designs and a variety of materials, modern necklace trends offer a new take on timeless glamour, giving people the freedom to express themselves in striking ways. Here’s a look at what makes necklaces such a chic and versatile accessory.
- Chain Link Necklaces: Chain link necklaces are the epitome of modern style. With their dynamic shapes and meticulous details, they bring an edgy touch to any look. Whether you choose to wear a chunky black chain linked necklace or one with a subtle sparkle, you can easily craft a unique and stylish look.
- Statement Pieces: If you want to up the wow factor, look no further than statement necklaces. With oversized geometric shapes, and vibrant gemstones, these can be the perfect way to make a bold statement. Whether you want to make a high fashion statement or complement an elegant evening wear look, statement necklaces are sure to do the trick.
- Colorful Costume Jewelry: Costume jewelry is also embracing the latest trends, with colorful designs that range from fun and playful to sophisticated and elegant. With so many designs to choose from, you can find a piece to complement any look, from tropical-inspired necklaces to more subdued and traditional designs.
No matter what your personal style, the modern necklace trend is an exciting way to make a statement. As people become increasingly daring with their wardrobe choices, necklaces are becoming one of the highest impact accessories. From the everyday chain link necklace to the most extravagant designs, today’s necklaces allow people to express their individual style in a fashionable and eye-catching way.
From the earliest civilizations to today’s bold fashion statements, necklaces have continually evolved, reflecting their timeless and inspired designs. Whether that be through amulets, beads, or pearls, jewelry items always tell a story and when it comes to necklaces that story of beauty in all its forms is truly remarkable.
